iStockphoto/Thinkstock(NEW YORK) -- Despite the advances of civilization over the years, a new study finds humans may actually be decreasing in their levels of intellectual ability.

A team of researchers at Stanford University has been conducting a study of genetic mutations which can affect intellectual and emotional abilities. They have projected the theory that humans reached their intellectual peak 2,000 to 6,000 years ago, and that our sensibilities have been on the decline ever since.

One reason for this decline could be attributed to the innovations of technology, according to the team. Because of the many comforts technological innovations provide, there is no longer as much of a need for intelligence to survive in the world.

The researchers also say that this devolving process will happen over a span of 120 generations, or 3,000 years.

The study has already inspired scores of critics who argue that humans' intelligence is not decaying, but rather changing into different natures and styles. Scientists are also making the argument that a genius like Stephen Hawking could never have existed hundreds, or even thousands of years ago.